An Azeri-German business-forum was held May 22 in Baku, and it will continue tomorrow in Sumgayit. Trend reports, at the opening Niyazi Safarov, deputy Minister of Economic Development, described macroeconomic situation in the country and informed the guests of long-term programs performed. One of priority-driven issues of Azerbaijans economic policy is establishing connections with all the countries within the EU. Some 30 agreements have been signed with these states to date. Goods circulation of 2005 amounted $250mln, showing a 24% increase over year.
Frank Weising, representative of Federal Ministry of Economy and Technology, Germany, who is assigned the authority for East European. Central Asian and Caucasian affairs in June, stressed the 90.4% and 81.1% increase of export and import, respectively, between Germany and Azerbaijan. Alongside, he stated the necessity in expansion of Azeri-German economic relations in a view of Germany as a strategic partner for Azerbaijan. Alongside the oil expert, German companies can help in crude oil refining.
В"Our ministry is going to submit its proposals to Azeri side and todays forum promotes the further expansion of relations. We also support Azerbaijan in his strive to join the EU HашеВ", - Mr Weising said.
Detlef Lingemann, German Ambassador to Azerbaijan, said his diplomatic mission is also going to help develop the mutual relationships. German companies today are concerned in infrastructure-related projects, energy projects and upgrade of legal system.
The business-forum hosts 18 German companies specialized in industry, power engineering, alternative power sources, telecommunications, construction and so. In particular, these are ChemCycle Bitterfeld Gmbh, Siemens AG, Zacharias Gmbh Styroeexpert.
